A truck driver has been arrested at the Kipoi border crossing in northeastern Greece after customs officers discovered more than 5.6 million contraband cigarettes concealed inside his vehicle.

According to authorities, the truck had entered Greece from Turkey and was believed to be en route to France. The vehicle was stopped and inspected after customs officials were tipped off.

During the search, officers uncovered 280 boxes containing untaxed cigarettes hidden deep within the trailer. Investigators said the illicit cargo had been carefully concealed, with pallets of legitimate goods, including tiles and dishes, positioned around the truck’s sides to mask its presence.

The taxes and duties evaded through the shipment of untaxed cigarettes are estimated to exceed €1.15 million.